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Reflecting the Diversity of Our World
In Glitches of Gods, an engineer grappling with his father’s death is propelled into an alternate timeline and a new life following a mysterious technical glitch. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I began with a set of themes I wanted to explore: the multiverse, AI, virtual worlds, memes, and leadership. Don’t ask me why these particular themes – I don’t have a logical explanation. I felt they would create an intriguing combination. I then employed the Save the Cat method to outline the story structure and develop story beats until I had a compelling narrative. As a test, I narrated the entire story to some friends to gauge their reactions. Only after that did I begin the actual writing process.
What character did you enjoy writing for? Was there one that was more challenging to write for?
The protagonist, Julien, is my favorite character to write. He begins as a likable yet irresponsible individual who doesn’t take anything seriously, but throughout the story, he gradually evolves into the responsible person he needs to become. As an author, crafting this transformative journey was incredibly rewarding. Of course, there’s also Zha-Zhar, who seems to be a fan favorite among my readers. She was definitely enjoyable to write as well, though as a supporting character, her personal growth wasn’t as central to the narrative.
I can’t recall struggling significantly with particular characters, though some were easier or more enjoyable to write than others. To be clear, I’m fond of each character in my novel. However, just as in real life, some personalities are more challenging to engage with.
What is one thing that you hope readers take away from Glitches of Gods?
Human diversity is a central theme in my work. While I’m unsure if some groups, such as the LGBTQ+ community, are still underrepresented in contemporary fiction (they certainly were for many decades), I consciously try to ensure they have significant representation in my novel. I believe in creating a rich tapestry of characters that reflects the diversity of our real world.
Can you give us a glimpse inside Book 2? Where will it take readers?
I plan to take readers to another world in the Playspheres saga. This time, it will probably be a bit more fantasy-oriented than the first one. But the plan is to continue the larger thread that I started with the first one.
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Julien feels utterly miserable. Creator of the AI that killed his father, the brilliant engineer deftly evades work on the world’s first human-level android, dodging the off-chance of snuffing out more lives. Instead, Julien much prefers bickering with his virtual assistant, crafting memes with his quirky friends, and shagging dates across a broad spectrum of genders. Yet, due to a maddening jump across timelines, he grudgingly faces his greatest dreads: raising a family and leading his team to win the AI race.
Drowning in new duties, Julien aims to avoid a second AI disaster. But when a mysterious technological infection wreaks havoc on the city, Julien flip-flops between shielding his loved ones and leading his team as he battles it out with broken robots, idiot protestors, and a rather sinister cat. Learning he got himself involved in a war between gods, should Julien save his new family or finish his team’s android to prevent an AI apocalypse?
Glitches of Gods is the extraordinary first book in the Playspheres epic science fantasy series. If you like cynical sentients, wacky worlds, and plenteous profanity, then you’ll love the kick-off of Jurgen Appelo’s bewildering and humorous dystopian sci-fi saga.
Buy Glitches of Gods and choose sides in a super-sentient war!
The Gemini Project
The Gemini Project by Ian Moran offers a fresh take on the dystopian genre, centering around the life of Jan Ericson, a 17-year-old boy living at Corpo Academy. At first glance, Jan’s world seems like any other, filled with sports and games. However, there’s a stark difference: he and his classmates aren’t taught to read or write. Eagerly anticipating his move to New London to join his father, Jan remains unaware that the upcoming Renaissance on his 18th birthday holds a far darker reality than he imagines, as his entire life has been built on a lie.
Moran has crafted a world that feels original, revealing it gradually and naturally rather than through heavy-handed exposition. This approach allows readers to learn and experience the world alongside Jan, making his journey feel immersive and engaging. Through Jan’s eyes, we also gain insights into Dr. Osler, a pivotal character, whose depth is revealed through his interactions with Jan and his writings. There are moments where the story takes a brief pause to delve into the world-building, offering valuable context that enriches the setting. While these sections shift the focus slightly from Jan’s journey, they ultimately contribute to a deeper understanding of the world he inhabits. This allows for a more immersive experience, even as you eagerly anticipate returning to Jan’s unfolding story. The prologue is gripping, setting high expectations for the rest of the novel. The story takes its time to build up to the promises made in the opening, allowing for a deeper exploration of the world and characters. While it unfolds at a measured pace, the plot eventually takes unexpected and refreshing turns that add intrigue and surprise to the narrative. Though the journey may differ from initial expectations, this approach offers a unique and thoughtful experience that keeps readers engaged. Jan’s character arc is compelling and feels authentic, making the journey worth it. I also appreciated the subtle Easter eggs Moran scattered throughout the story, adding layers for attentive readers to discover.
The Gemini Project is a distinctive entry in the dystopian genre with well-developed characters. The story takes its time to build from the intriguing prologue to its eventual payoff, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in the world and characters. For those who enjoy a thoughtful and carefully crafted narrative, Jan’s journey offers a deeply engaging and rewarding experience.
Pages: 349 | ASIN : B0D5D5YCWZ
Fractured State
Fractured State by R.M. Tembreull is a riveting fusion of mythology and dystopia, set in a future America where Texas has seceded and fallen under extremist control. The protagonist, Arden, a distinguished veteran, is tasked with safeguarding a community of Druids known as Hearthstone Grove. Branded as religious deviants by the new Texas republic, Arden and his community must navigate a perilous world where reality, mythology, and technology intersect, facing relentless threats to their survival.
Tembreull’s writing is a tapestry of vivid imagery and intricate world-building. From the very first chapter, the reader is plunged into a narrative that oscillates between the human and the supernatural, the real and the mythic. The prologue, “Purgatorium,” sets the tone with its exploration of a metaphysical state that restricts spiritual growth, offering a powerful metaphor for the constraints facing the characters and, by extension, humanity. Tembreull’s ability to weave together such high-concept ideas with grounded, relatable human experiences is one of the novel’s standout features. One of the novel’s strengths lies in its character development. The characters, both human and otherworldly, are well-crafted and multi-dimensional. The Sentient Winds and Elementals, like Nilch’i and Parim, are not just forces of nature but entities with personal vendettas and deep emotional landscapes. The human characters, such as Kieran McBride, embody the struggles and resilience of those living on the margins of society. This duality is best exemplified in the interactions between the elemental beings and their human counterparts, which are fraught with tension and profound moments of insight. The narrative is rich with lore and exposition, which, while fascinating, can occasionally overwhelm the reader. The detailed descriptions of the universe’s creation and the Inani’s home world, Calisphaer, are particularly dense. While these sections add depth to the story, they also slow down the pacing. Readers who enjoy meticulously crafted worlds will appreciate this attention to detail, but those looking for a more straightforward narrative might find it challenging.
Fractured State is a compelling read for those who enjoy deep, intricate world-building and complex characters. Tembreull’s narrative is both a cautionary tale and an epic fantasy, blending real-world issues with mythic elements to create a story that is as entertaining as it is thought-provoking. This book is highly recommended for fans of speculative fiction and those who appreciate a richly detailed universe that challenges the reader to think critically about the world around them.
Pages: 299 | ASIN : B0D7LRZN75
Jackie and the Magical Guys
Jackie and the Magical Guys, by Amy Linsamouth, is a captivating blend of humor, action, and surprising twists. The story follows Jackie, a 16-year-old from a dystopian future, who is sent back in time by her brilliant mother to prevent an apocalypse. Unfamiliar with the world of viral memes and internet culture, Jackie must form a team of female warriors to save humanity. In an unexpected turn, she accidentally turns four reluctant men into magical girls using a super soldier serum. This creates a unique and entertaining narrative that explores whether Jackie can turn this accident into a success.
Linsamouth delivers a dynamic story that immediately draws readers in with its fast-paced action, avoiding lengthy expositions that often slow down other narratives. The characters are well-developed, each with distinct personalities that add depth and humor to the story. The concept of transforming four men into magical girls is both hilarious and refreshing, providing plenty of laugh-out-loud moments as they adapt to their new identities. While there are differences between the cover art and the interior illustrations, this contrast adds an intriguing layer to the experience. The cover’s bright, chibi-like style suggests a lighthearted tone, which makes the darker, graphic novel-like interior art an exciting surprise. This juxtaposition enriches the narrative, making it more compelling. The brisk pace of the story keeps readers engaged, and although it sometimes transitions quickly between events, this rapid progression maintains a lively and dynamic feel.
Jackie and the Magical Guys is an inventive and engaging story with plenty of potential. It masterfully combines humor, action, and darker themes, offering a unique twist on the magical girl genre. The cliffhanger ending leaves readers eagerly anticipating the next volume, excited to see how the story and characters will evolve. For those who enjoy fast-paced, humorous tales with a touch of the bizarre, this comic is definitely worth exploring.
Pages: 120 | ASIN : B0D8V7ZMKQ
Glitches of Gods (Playspheres Book 1)
Jurgen “Jojo” Appelo’s debut sci-fi novel, Glitches of Gods, offers an exhilarating journey through a troubled future where advanced AI, virtual worlds, and reality-warping “gods” intertwine. The story centers on Julien, a brilliant yet tormented engineer burdened with guilt over an AI malfunction that led to his father’s death. The narrative takes off when a mysterious technical glitch disrupts Julien’s city, propelling him into an alternate timeline. Suddenly, Julien finds himself a single father of twin boys and the leader of a quirky tech team. As he grapples with broken bots, misguided protestors, and an escalating conflict among “gods,” Julien’s world becomes increasingly chaotic.
Delving deeper into the novel’s unique plot risks spoilers, but suffice it to say that Appelo’s writing embraces a mix of genres. Glitches of Gods seamlessly blends science fiction, family drama, and fantasy, creating a disorienting yet compelling read—much like the experience of being thrust into an alternate reality. One of the book’s standout features is its world-building. Appelo crafts a vividly imaginative universe filled with intricate details ranging from futuristic technology to a diverse cast of supporting characters. The sections set in virtual reality are particularly mesmerizing, offering a trippy, immersive experience.
Julien is a captivating protagonist—a complex and flawed hero who evolves from a cynical, self-loathing individual into a natural leader. His journey is organic and unrushed, making him an easy character to root for despite his stubborn and melancholic tendencies. The supporting characters, including Julien’s precocious children and his eccentric interdimensional housekeeper, add depth, humor, and warmth to the story. The plot is well-paced, brimming with twists and turns that grow increasingly bizarre as the narrative progresses. Although the story can become challenging to follow, especially towards the end, the effort is well worth it. Appelo’s tone shifts dramatically throughout the novel. He deftly moves from sharp satire on corporate greed to slapstick comedy and even touches on existential horror. While this tonal variety can cause some whiplash, it underscores Appelo’s commitment to his unique vision. Beyond its entertaining plot, the novel delves into profound philosophical themes. It explores the moral implications of creating advanced AI, simulation theory, and the tension between destiny and self-determination. Appelo weaves these themes into Julien’s journey without becoming overly didactic.
Glitches of Gods is an ambitious and thrilling debut novel. Appelo’s work is highly recommended for readers who appreciate a genre-blending, thought-provoking adventure.
Pages: 526 | ASIN : B0D5NPZY8Y
Blackout: 94 Days of Darkness
Nick was an anxious kid even under normal circumstances. Constantly worried about bullies, his father’s volatile temper, and life’s challenges, the difficulties of adolescence were magnified for him. When a giant asteroid threatens to plunge the Earth into over three months of darkness and extreme cold, Nick’s concerns escalate to matters of life and death. While families prepare for the impending crisis, Nick and his friends grapple with the uncertainty of survival. As the 94 days of darkness set in, their world changes drastically. Will they make it through? And what will life be like if they do?
Blackout: 94 Days of Darkness by Greg and Christina Winick follows the story of Nick, a 12-year-old navigating the usual struggles of adolescence, compounded by the stress of a catastrophic environmental event with unknown long-term effects. Nick finds solace in time spent with his friends and conversations with the school therapist, but he cannot shake an overwhelming sense of dread about the future. His situation is made worse by the knowledge that not everyone will be trapped in a home with an abusive father, making the inside almost as perilous as the outside. As the darkness sets in, temperatures drop, and Earth enters a new ice age. The Winicks masterfully create a sense of doom and foreboding, eventually layering in a feeling of claustrophobia once Nick and his family are confined to their home. The sensation of endless night is palpable, despite the blackout occupying just over half of the book. As conditions deteriorate, survival becomes a race against time, with humanity simply trying to endure a natural disaster beyond their control. It’s a wonderfully tense read that never becomes emotionally overwhelming. The story subtly conveys a message of hope and the importance of controlling what you can in life.
While I would have liked to see more depth in some characters and situations, I was thoroughly engrossed and read the book in just a couple of sittings. Once the blackout occurred, I couldn’t put it down. Nick is a charming narrator who perfectly captures the concerns, both rational and otherwise, of a child his age, even before the literal impending doom. Blackout: 94 Days of Darkness is a captivating and intense read that will keep you hooked from beginning to end.
Pages: 159 | ASIN : B0BL42Z572
Of Ashes and Dust
Of Ashes and Dust, by Ron Roman, is an enthralling exploration of survival, intrigue, and the human condition. Set in a small New Hampshire town at the turn of the Millennium, the novel follows Professor Will Watson, a haunted Vietnam War veteran and activist. Watson’s tumultuous past and his pursuit by the State Police and FBI form the crux of this gripping narrative. The story delves into Watson’s complex relationship with his Japanese student assistant, Kimiko, and the sinister truth about his friend Mark Mercotti, who deceives him with a covert implant. This tale of personal betrayal unfolds against a backdrop of impending Armageddon, government conspiracies, and profound emotional turmoil.
Roman masterfully weaves together multiple subplots, creating a tapestry of suspense and emotional depth. The layers of the story, from intimate relationships to broader themes of betrayal and existential dread, set this book apart in its genre. The narrative’s complexity and richness elevate it to a work of significant literary merit. I do feel that the main character’s frequent use of crude language seems inconsistent with his portrayal. I think this use of explicit language can be somewhat distracting and detracts from the character’s depth. However, this does not in any way overshadow the novel’s many strengths.
Of Ashes and Dust is a truly compelling read. The novel’s intricate plot, vivid characterizations, and intense emotional undercurrents make it a must-read. Ron Roman’s ability to interlace various elements into a cohesive and engaging narrative is truly remarkable.
For those seeking an action-packed book that also offers emotional depth and thought-provoking themes, Of Ashes and Dust is highly recommended. This masterfully interwoven novel is a feast for the senses and a testament to Roman’s storytelling prowess.
Pages: 261 | ASIN : B0B351MR6Q
Cadence
Cadence, by David Loermans, is a thrilling ride through a dystopian world where crime, corruption, and a peculiar religious order intertwine. The story follows Darius, a hardened criminal with a bounty on his head, as he navigates a city rife with chaos and decay. Paired with Lisha, an enigmatic and powerful entity bound to him through a mysterious tattoo, Darius takes on dangerous missions that bring him face-to-face with religious leaders, corrupt officials, and deadly adversaries. The book mixes high-stakes action, dark humor, and philosophical musings on power, faith, and human nature.
Loermans’ writing style is gritty and immersive, perfectly capturing the grim atmosphere of Sorel. The vivid descriptions of the decaying cityscape and the brutal reality of life within it are both compelling and haunting. The dialogue is sharp and often laced with dark humor, adding depth to the characters and making their interactions authentic. The relationship between Darius and Lisha is particularly intriguing as it evolves from mere necessity to a complex partnership marked by mutual dependence and a shared thirst for mayhem.
One of the standout aspects is its exploration of the Earthdawn religion and its influence on the city and its inhabitants. The Earthdawn, with its emphasis on light and purity, stands in stark contrast to the darkness and corruption that pervades the story. This juxtaposition raises thought-provoking questions about the nature of faith, power, and morality. The scenes involving the Earthdawn leadership, particularly the tense negotiations, and violent confrontations, are some of the most gripping in the book, highlighting the lengths to which people will go to maintain control and protect their beliefs. Some chapters feel packed with action and intrigue, while others slow down significantly, delving into Darius’s internal struggles and his complex relationship with Lisha. These introspective moments add depth to his character.
Cadence is a captivating read for those who enjoy dark, dystopian thrillers with a philosophical edge. David Loermans crafts a vivid and unsettling world populated by complex characters and driven by a relentless, often brutal narrative. Fans of cyberpunk and gritty crime fiction will find much to appreciate in this book, while those interested in exploring themes of faith, power, and human nature will be drawn in by its deeper questions.
LITERARY TITAN 